Review: Diversity at Liverpool Empire Theatre

“…entertaining, visually stunning and emotionally engaging…”

Diversity by Ashley Banjo, Liverpool Empire Theatre

By Abi Kelly

Diversity’s latest production, Soul, at the Liverpool Empire is an electrifying showcase of talent, creativity, and stagecraft. Known for their rise to fame through Britain’s Got Talent, this group pushes the boundaries of dance, with a visually striking and high-energy performance that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.

From the outset, the show impresses with its dynamic lighting design. Cleverly used throughout, the lighting shifts seamlessly to match the tone of each routine. whether it’s sharp, strobe-like bursts that heighten intensity or softer, more atmospheric washes that underscore emotional moments. At times, the lighting becomes a part of the choreography, enhancing formations and adding depth to the stage.

Equally impressive are the wardrobe and set design. The costumes are both stylish and functional, allowing the dancers complete freedom while still contributing to the overall aesthetic of the show. Each outfit feels carefully chosen to match the mood of the piece it accompanies, from sleek, futuristic looks that tie into the show’s themes, to more relaxed, character-driven styles that bring warmth and relatability. The attention to detail here adds another layer of professionalism and polish.

Where Soul is slightly less convincing is in its storytelling. This show is a commentary set to explore themes of human connection in a digital age, touching on ideas around technology, memory, and what it means to be truly “alive.” While this is an ambitious and timely concept, the first act of the show seems so packed with content that, halfway through, the narrative direction of the performance doesn’t feel like it’s taking us anywhere with intention. However, the second act has a lot more room for each sequence to breathe. The storytelling comes together through different forms of multimedia and we return to being drawn into a story.

However, what the story may lack in the first act, the performers more than make up for in sheer excitement and personality, which the audience adored. This is where Diversity truly shines. Every dancer brings charisma and energy to the stage, creating a connection with the audience that feels genuine and infectious. Their timing and precision are exceptional, but it’s their individuality and presence that elevate the performance beyond technical excellence.

The choreography itself is, as expected, outstanding. Intricate group formations, creative transitions, and a seamless blend of dance styles keep the show feeling fresh and unpredictable. There’s a strong sense of momentum throughout, with each routine building on the last to create a thrilling overall experience.

By the time the show reaches its finale, any shortcomings feel overshadowed by the sheer spectacle and joy of the performance. Overall, Soul succeeds in delivering what matters most: an entertaining, visually stunning and emotionally engaging night at the theatre.

Diversity plays at Liverpool Empire Theatre until Tuesday 17 March.

Abi Kelly is a writer and theatre enthusiast who has studied both Drama and Scriptwriting. A lover of weird and wonderful stories, she’s usually found at home with a book in hand or deep in a theatre seat.